centralusa.salvationarmy.org / May 1, 2023

In the spirit of last weekend’s NFL player draft, The Salvation Army in the Twin Cities announces we have “drafted” former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver and Cris Carter, an NFL Hall of Fall inductee, broadcast analyst and entrepreneur. The Salvation Army chose Carter as our “first selection” because he’s passionate about our work — providing food, housing and emergency assistance to struggling families and those in need.

“People don’t know that The Salvation Army was there to help my family when I was growing up,” said Carter, a four-time All-Pro and eight-time Pro Bowl selection. “My mom raised seven kids by herself, and the assistance she received was essential for us. I want to help make sure people are made aware of the important work done by The Salvation Army.”

Carter, who was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2013, played for three NFL teams, but the most prolific work of his career was his 12 years with the Vikings from 1990-2001. He set and shares two NFL receiving records but, more incredibly, holds 13 Vikings records by himself and shares another six records with other Vikings players. In 1999 he was also recognized for his extensive philanthropic work in the community with the NFL’s Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.

“This is truly an honor to be in partnership with a legend like Cris, to help educate the Twin Cities about the work we do and how people can come along side us — be it as a volunteer or as a donor,” said Lt. Colonel Dan Jennings, Salvation Army Northern Division commander. “Without a doubt, this is the best ‘draft pick’ we’ve ever made.”

Carter will be involved in promoting Salvation Army initiatives like the annual Down For The Challenge urban rappelling fundraiser, the annual Back-To-School supply drive, and the Christmas Red Kettle bell-ringing and Rice Park Tree of Lights tree lighting.

“The Salvation Army is by nature a humble organization, so my goal is to make sure that Minnesotans know what a quality organization they are, and that they are worthy of our support,” Carter added. “The thousands of families they help every year would certainly tell you this.”

Are you Down for the Challenge? You can support The Salvation Army’s efforts to fight homelessness by donating to or participating in our Down for the Challenge urban rappelling event with the Minnesota Vikings. This adrenaline-pumping event takes place July 28–29 at the Omni Viking Lakes Hotel during Vikings training camp.